Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are automobiles that use hydrogen as their primary energy source to power the motor. The basic principle of a hydrogen fuel cell involves introducing hydrogen into the cell, where electrons from hydrogen atoms are blocked by a proton exchange membrane and flow through an external circuit, generating electricity that drives the vehicle. Meanwhile, protons pass through the membrane and combine with oxygen to form water vapor, making the process clean and pollution-free.
The application prospects for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are promising. When pure hydrogen is used, the only byproduct is water, making it an environmentally friendly option. These vehicles are also quiet, efficient, and responsive. Beyond automotive use, hydrogen fuel cells can serve as green power sources in industrial settings, such as large-scale hydrogen fuel power stations. As Canadian scientist Scott once described, fuel cells act as the "chip" of the energy system, playing a crucial role in energy supply and extending their impact across the national economy and daily life.
Hydrogen energy is gaining attention as a future energy source due to its numerous advantages. It is clean, producing only water when burned, and has a higher calorific value than gasoline. Additionally, hydrogen is renewable, as it can be extracted from various substances available globally.
Mass production of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles began in 2013 when Hyundai launched the ix35 FCV, the world's first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, in South Korea. Toyota followed in 2014 with the Mirai, and Honda introduced the Clarity in 2015, which became available to consumers in 2016.
To better understand how these vehicles work, let’s take the Hyundai ix35 FCV as an example. A hydrogen fuel cell functions like a battery, using hydrogen as its raw material. It operates through a reverse reaction of water electrolysis, where hydrogen and oxygen are supplied to the anode and cathode respectively. Electrons travel through an external load, creating electricity, while the remaining hydrogen and oxygen combine to produce water.
In essence, a hydrogen fuel cell is a generator that uses hydrogen as its input. Although this technology was first used in space missions during the 1960s, it has only recently been applied to vehicles. Two main benefits of hydrogen fuel cells include the fact that they produce only water as waste and convert chemical energy directly into electricity with higher efficiency than traditional internal combustion engines.
The structure of the ix35 FCV includes a rear hydrogen storage area, a central battery and inverter, and a front fuel cell and powertrain. The hydrogen tanks are made of carbon fiber and aluminum, capable of holding up to 5.64 kg of hydrogen at high pressure. A high-voltage battery pack is located beneath the vehicle, and the inverter helps manage the electrical system. The fuel cell and motor are positioned in the front, similar to a conventional engine, facilitating future mass production.
Although the working principle of the ix35 FCV seems straightforward—hydrogen and oxygen reacting to generate electricity—it involves complex systems such as thermal management, air treatment, and fuel processing. These components ensure the vehicle operates efficiently and safely.
Comparing the ix35 FCV with Toyota's Mirai reveals some differences. While the Mirai offers better performance and range, the ix35 FCV still demonstrates significant potential. Toyota positioned the Mirai as the first commercially viable hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, even though the ix35 FCV was the first to be mass-produced.
Despite challenges such as the limited availability of hydrogen refueling stations and high costs, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles represent a promising future for sustainable transportation. With continued advancements and infrastructure development, they could become a mainstream alternative to both gasoline-powered and electric vehicles.
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